Tragedy strikes at the Tour of Iran: Young cyclist loses his life after in-race accident

The Tour of Iran (2.1) is far from the most prestigious races on the cycling calendar, but after a one-year hiatus, the Middle-Eastern country was ready to welcome the best cyclists from the region for a week of exciting racing.

One of the stars of the race was Turkish sprinter Tahir Yigit (Spor Toto) who won two stages. But his success was overshadowed by a tragedy that struck his teammates at the beginning of last stage. Yigit's teammates Ahmet Örken and Mustafa Ayyorkun were involved in a crash that had both abandon the race.

While the more experienced Örken (10-time National champion among others) suffered only minor injuries, his younger compatrior Ayyorkun was transported to local hospital where his fight for life had begun on Saturday. However, four days later the sad news were confirmed by Spor Toto that the 21-year-old talent of Turkish cycling had passed away.

Ayyorkun had a bright future ahead. In youth categories he drew attention as Türkiye's two-time junior road race champion. His transition into elite category was not as smooth as he had hoped for, but his sprinting talent was gradually becoming more and more recognized with two second places at smaller Turkish races.

Photo credits: Instagram of Ekenler Çatalhüyük Çumra Belediyespor